Spread the love

Delicious creamy spaghetti carbonara served in a bowl

Authentic Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe – Comforting Creamy Perfection

There’s something magical about a perfectly executed Spaghetti Carbonara. This classic Italian dish embodies comfort food at its finest – silky, rich, and incredibly satisfying. Our version stays true to traditional methods while accommodating dietary preferences, creating a naturally creamy sauce without pork that will transport you straight to a Roman trattoria.

What makes this carbonara special is its simplicity. With just a handful of quality ingredients, you’ll create a restaurant-quality meal that’s deceptively easy to master. The key lies in technique rather than complicated ingredients, making this the perfect weeknight dinner that feels truly special.

Ingredients

400g (14 oz) spaghetti or bucatini pasta
4 large eggs
200g (7 oz) pecorino romano cheese, freshly grated
200g (7 oz) pancetta alternative (turkey bacon or chicken bacon)
Freshly ground black pepper
Sea salt
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil for the pasta. While waiting, grate your pecorino cheese finely and beat the eggs in a medium bowl. Add most of the grated cheese to the eggs, reserving some for garnish. Cut your pancetta alternative into small cubes.

Step 2: Cook the Protein

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the pancetta alternative until crispy and golden brown. If using garlic, add it during the last minute of cooking. Remove from heat but keep the skillet warm.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. The starchy water is crucial for creating the perfect sauce consistency.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Working quickly, add the hot drained pasta to the skillet with the pancetta. Toss to coat. Remove from heat entirely and let cool for 30 seconds. Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing continuously to create a creamy sauce. Add pasta water as needed to achieve your desired consistency.

Step 5: Final Touches

Season generously with black pepper and additional salt if needed. The sauce should be creamy and smooth, coating every strand of pasta. Serve immediately with extra cheese and parsley garnish.

Expert Tips for Perfect Carbonara

Temper Your Eggs: The key to creamy carbonara without scrambled eggs is adding the hot pasta to the egg mixture off the heat. The residual heat cooks the eggs gently.

Use Quality Cheese: Authentic pecorino romano provides the right salty, sharp flavor that defines carbonara.

Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The starchy water helps emulsify the sauce and creates that signature silky texture.

Work Quickly: Carbonara is best served immediately after preparation to maintain its creamy consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make carbonara without eggs?

Traditional carbonara relies on eggs for its creamy texture. While you can try alternatives, the egg-based sauce is essential to authentic carbonara.

What’s the best pasta for carbonara?

Spaghetti is traditional, but bucatini works beautifully too. The important factor is having a pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce well.

How do I prevent scrambled eggs?

Remove the pan from heat completely before adding the egg mixture and toss continuously. The residual heat is enough to cook the eggs gently.

Can I make carbonara ahead of time?

Carbonara is best served immediately. If you need to prepare components ahead, cook the pancetta alternative and grate the cheese in advance.

This classic Spaghetti Carbonara recipe proves that sometimes the simplest dishes are the most rewarding. With these techniques and tips, you’ll create a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that will become a family favorite.